Moments That Made History
Unlock July events that became turning points in history. Every month, we dive into our archives for editorial content—finding top-quality, timely inspiration for your marketing calendars, news, or documentary projects.
This month, rediscover Bastille Day, explore Antarctica, catch up with wizarding stars hailing everywhere from Waverley Place to Hogwarts, and discover archives from the FBI!
July Events
Storming of the Bastille
July 14, 1789
We commemorate the day when furious revolutionaries stormed the Bastille’s 100 ft walls, an event that became a violent catalyst to the French Revolution.
The stone building was originally built as a medieval fortress but later imprisoned ‘wrongdoers’ at the discretion of King Louis XVI. These included political dissidents like Voltaire, who were often offered no trial. By July 14, 1789, the prison fell into disrepair and held only seven prisoners. But what it lacked in inmates, it made up for in symbolic importance. For people facing economic disaster, those walls and all working within represented the careless tyranny of the French monarchy. Faced with an angry mob, Bastille governor de Launay invited representatives to negotiate. Still, the lengthy proceedings broke down, resulting in a bloody massacre and the governor’s eventual surrender and death.
The Bastille became a new symbol of democracy. It is still remembered annually in national proceedings of la Fête Nationale or le 14 juillet (July 14). Every year since 1880, the French government and world leaders have watched soldiers march the Champs-Elysées in one of the oldest military parades in the world. Take to the streets for festivity, parties, and pyrotechnics with this expertly curated Bastille Day media collection.
Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité!
‘1919 – Huge Crowds Watch A Bastille Day Parade Pass Through The Arc De Triomphe.’ by retrofootage
The lowest temperature ever recorded by humans
July 21, 1983
In 1983, researchers at the Vostok Research Station in Antarctica focused on ice core drilling and climate and geological investigation. They used ground-based weather instruments, including thermometers, and other meteorological equipment, to collect temperature data. One day, on July 21, these devices revealed a surprise to chill one to the bone—Earth’s coldest ground-measured air temperature of −128.6 °F (−89.2 °C). Ground-based methods meant researchers had to protect themselves with air-warming masks because the human lung would hemorrhage upon inhaling air that cold. Nowadays, infrared and satellite-based remote sensing is an easier way of monitoring Antarctic temperature and has revealed a new record low of −144°F in 2018.
How does it get so cold? Measurements must be taken midwinter, long after the seasonal midnight sun sets. The air must be completely still, without a trace of water vapor in the form of cloud or diamond dust above the ice. Take a closer look at the polar world with this expertly sourced curated Antarctica collection. We’ll keep you warm!
‘Comparison Data of Temperature Displayed in the Report – 1933-1935’ by GovernmentFootage
Final Harry Potter book released
July 21, 2007
Years after the first film adaptation, J.K Rowling concluded her magical seven-book saga by publishing the final “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.” Harry Potter and his friends have captivated generations on their quest for peace in the wizarding world, and the chronicles of these adventures have sold over 400 million copies worldwide in over 60 language translations.
The book series may be credited with boosting literacy worldwide, but with every wand, there is indeed another way! Potter fans have multiple platforms to experience the magic. Aside from pouring over pages, you’ll find these muggles gobbling up gameplay, gazing wide-eyed at cinema screens, and banging down the doors of Broadway. And according to recent announcements, we’ll soon be watching the Harry Potter TV series on Max (the streaming service previously known as HBO Max.) The show is reported to be executively produced by author J.K Rowling, who’ll enchant audiences anew with the imaginative story that came to her on a train journey in 1990.
Already missing Daniel, Emma, Rupert, and the gang? We’ve got you. Jump into this Harry Potter stock media collection for scenes with the cast who first brought these tales to life, J.K Rowling, and fantasy fans worldwide.
‘Usa: “Harry Potter” Author J.k. Rowling Sits Down With School Children’ by Reuters
Selena Gomez born
July 22, 1992
She may be Texan-born and raised, but this multi-talented performer has no lone-star rating. Known for her authenticity, unique vocals, acting, Rare Beauty brand, and activism, she’s making big moves in every direction.
Inspired by her amateur actress mother, Selena first appeared on Barney & Friends in 2002 and later gained fame as a pre-teen in Disney’s Wizards of Waverley Place. Most recently, she received her first Emmy nomination (the second Latina woman to do so) as executive producer on Only Murders in The Building. While steadily building a film and television career, she fronted the band ‘Selena Gomez & the Scene’ before embarking on a successful solo career. Frequent collaborations with exciting artists like Marshmello and Rema bring her unique vocals to musical audiences with diverse tastes.
While her name means ‘moon,’ her star rose at a critical time in history—entering the public eye during social media’s boom enabled her to become the first person ever to get over 100 million Instagram followers in 2016. However, her talent, hard work, and authenticity will ensure career longevity. Find scenes taken throughout her career in our Selena Gomez curated media collection.
‘Usa: American Actress And Singer Selena Gomez Announces 56-City World Tour’ by Reuters
FBI Founded
July 26, 1908
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is now a well-known U.S. law enforcement agency. Then-Attorney General Charles Bonaparte formed it as a small division within the Department of Justice. Until this point, private investigators were hired as needed to investigate federal crimes. Then Bonaparte, inspired by European Law Enforcement agencies, set out to make a change. After receiving authorization to hire permanent investigators, his efforts set in motion an organization that forms a big part of the modern national landscape—and inspires many TV shows too.
History
Originally called the Bureau of Investigation (BOI), this small division began with just ten former Secret Service employees reporting for duty on July 26, 1908. Over time, the scope expanded, and the name changed to the FBI. Today the agency is organized into various divisions, operating in field offices throughout the country and overseas and playing a significant role in national security matters, counterintelligence, cybercrime, counterterrorism, and criminal investigations. It works closely with other domestic and international law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of the United States. Go behind the scenes of this famously private world with our professionally curated FBI media collection featuring official archival footage of training, operations, and more.
‘1936 – The Fbi Provides Physical Training For Agents And Cops, And Also Has An Extensive Law Library’ by retrofootage
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What are you lining up for this July? Whatever the project, Pond5 has everything you need to engage your audience, thanks to partners such as Reuters, Life, Global News, and other top agencies. We offer the world’s most extensive library of Editorial and archival footage. We add new content daily to the Pond5 Editorial collection, so keep checking back for new surprises.
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